Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for correcting image errors in a radiographic image, the method including: receiving a radiographic image of an inspection object, the radiographic image generated by an inspection apparatus configured for continuously transporting objects through the inspection apparatus for nondestructive inspection of the objects; recognizing whether the radiographic image contains only a portion of the inspection object; retrieving a further radiographic image of the inspection object based on recognition that the radiographic image contains only a portion of the inspection object, the further radiographic image generated by the inspection apparatus and containing a further portion of the inspection object; and combining the radiographic image with the further radiographic image to form a combined radiographic image.
This invention relates to radiographic imaging systems used for nondestructive inspection of objects during continuous transport through an inspection apparatus. The problem addressed is the occurrence of incomplete or partial images when objects are scanned, which can lead to errors in inspection results. The method corrects these errors by analyzing a radiographic image to determine if it contains only a portion of the inspection object. If a partial image is detected, the system retrieves an additional radiographic image of the same object, which contains a different portion of the object. The system then combines the original and additional images to form a complete radiographic image. This ensures that the entire object is accurately represented, improving inspection reliability. The method is particularly useful in high-speed inspection environments where objects are continuously transported through the imaging system, as it compensates for misalignment or timing issues that may result in incomplete scans. The technique enhances the accuracy of nondestructive testing by providing a full and uninterrupted view of the inspected object.
2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein retrieving a further radiographic image includes retrieving at least one of a preceding radiographic image or a subsequent radiographic image based on a determination that an image edge of the radiographic image intersects the inspection object.
This invention relates to radiographic imaging systems, specifically methods for improving image analysis by dynamically retrieving additional radiographic images when an inspection object is partially visible at the edge of a captured image. The problem addressed is the limitation of static image capture, where objects of interest may be cut off or only partially visible, leading to incomplete inspections. The solution involves automatically detecting when an object intersects the image boundary and retrieving supplementary images (either preceding or subsequent captures) to provide a more complete view of the object. This ensures that the full extent of the object is available for analysis, improving inspection accuracy and reliability. The method may involve analyzing the captured image to identify edges or boundaries of the object and determining whether they intersect the image frame. If an intersection is detected, the system retrieves additional images from a sequence of captures to reconstruct a full view of the object. This approach is particularly useful in automated inspection systems where continuous or high-speed imaging is employed, such as in manufacturing quality control or medical imaging. The invention enhances the robustness of image-based inspection by mitigating the effects of partial visibility, ensuring that critical features are not missed during analysis.
3. The method according to claim 1 , further including receiving a second radiographic image of the inspection object after the combined radiographic image is formed.
A method for radiographic inspection involves capturing multiple radiographic images of an inspection object from different angles or positions, then combining these images to form a single, enhanced radiographic image. The combined image provides improved visibility of internal features or defects within the object by reducing artifacts and increasing resolution. The method further includes capturing a second radiographic image of the inspection object after the combined image is formed. This additional image may be used for comparison, verification, or further analysis to ensure accuracy or detect changes in the object over time. The technique is particularly useful in non-destructive testing (NDT) applications, such as industrial inspections, medical imaging, or material analysis, where high-resolution imaging is required to identify flaws, structural integrity, or internal composition. The method may involve digital image processing, alignment algorithms, and noise reduction techniques to enhance the final combined image. The second radiographic image can be used to validate the combined image or assess dynamic changes in the object.
4. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising: recognizing whether at least one of the radiographic image or the combined radiographic image contains multiple inspection objects; dividing the at least one of the radiographic image or the combined radiographic image based on the recognition of multiple inspection objects; and generating at least one resulting radiographic image from the divided at least one of the radiographic image or the combined radiographic image, each of the at least one resulting radiographic image containing only one of the multiple inspection objects.
This invention relates to radiographic imaging systems, specifically addressing the challenge of processing radiographic images containing multiple inspection objects. The method involves analyzing a radiographic image or a combined radiographic image to determine if it contains multiple distinct objects. If multiple objects are detected, the image is automatically divided into separate sections, each containing only one inspection object. This division results in multiple individual radiographic images, each focused on a single object. The process ensures that each object is isolated for further analysis, improving inspection accuracy and efficiency. The system may integrate with existing radiographic imaging techniques, such as those used in non-destructive testing or medical imaging, to enhance object detection and segmentation. The method automates the separation of overlapping or adjacent objects, reducing manual intervention and potential errors in interpretation. The resulting individual images facilitate clearer visualization and analysis of each object, supporting applications in quality control, medical diagnostics, or industrial inspections. The invention streamlines workflows by eliminating the need for manual cropping or segmentation, making it suitable for high-throughput environments.
5. The method according to claim 4 , further comprising: defining a separating line, via placing a marker in the at least one of the radiographic image or the combined radio graphic image, along which the at least one of the radiographic image or the combined radiographic image is to be divided into the at least one resulting radiographic image.
This invention relates to radiographic imaging, specifically methods for processing and dividing radiographic images to enhance visualization and analysis. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently separate and analyze distinct regions within a radiographic image, such as overlapping anatomical structures or multiple images combined into a single view. The solution involves defining a separating line within a radiographic image or a combined radiographic image to divide it into at least one resulting radiographic image. This separating line is created by placing a marker along the desired division path, allowing precise segmentation of the image. The method ensures that the resulting images are accurately isolated for further examination, reducing ambiguity and improving diagnostic accuracy. The technique is particularly useful in medical imaging where clear separation of structures is critical for diagnosis. The invention builds on prior steps of generating or combining radiographic images, ensuring that the division process is applied to the correct input data. The separating line can be manually or automatically placed, depending on the application requirements, and the resulting images can be used independently or in conjunction with other imaging techniques. This approach enhances workflow efficiency and accuracy in radiographic analysis.
6. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising displaying at least one of the radiographic image or the combined radiographic image to an operator for visual evaluation.
This invention relates to radiographic imaging systems, specifically methods for enhancing image quality and usability in medical or industrial imaging applications. The core problem addressed is the need to improve the clarity and diagnostic value of radiographic images, particularly when multiple images are combined or when additional data needs to be overlaid for analysis. The method involves capturing a radiographic image of an object, such as a patient or industrial component, using X-ray or similar imaging techniques. The system then processes this image to generate a combined radiographic image, which may integrate multiple exposures, different imaging modalities, or supplementary data like annotations or measurement overlays. This combined image is optimized for visual evaluation by adjusting parameters such as contrast, brightness, or spatial resolution to enhance visibility of key features. The method further includes displaying the original radiographic image or the enhanced combined image to an operator, such as a radiologist or technician, for visual assessment. This display step ensures that the final image is suitable for diagnostic or analytical purposes, allowing the operator to identify abnormalities, defects, or areas of interest with greater accuracy. The system may also support interactive adjustments, enabling the operator to refine the image further based on their expertise. By integrating multiple imaging steps and providing a high-quality output, this method improves the efficiency and reliability of radiographic analysis in medical and industrial settings.
7. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising storing the at least one of the radiographic image or the combined radiographic image.
This invention relates to radiographic imaging, specifically methods for processing and storing radiographic images. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently capture, combine, and store radiographic images to improve diagnostic accuracy and workflow in medical imaging. The method involves capturing at least one radiographic image using an imaging device. If multiple images are captured, they are aligned and combined into a single radiographic image. This combination may involve adjusting the images to correct for misalignment, ensuring that the final image is accurate and free of artifacts. The combined image or the original radiographic image is then stored in a storage system for later retrieval and analysis. The method ensures that radiographic images are properly aligned and combined before storage, reducing the risk of misdiagnosis due to misaligned or incomplete images. This is particularly useful in medical applications where precise imaging is critical. The storage step ensures that the processed images are preserved for future reference, improving workflow efficiency in clinical settings. The invention enhances the reliability and usability of radiographic imaging systems by providing a structured approach to image capture, alignment, combination, and storage.
8. The method according to claim 1 , wherein recognizing whether the radiographic image contains only a portion of the inspection object includes: recognizing automatically whether the radiographic image contains at least one of multiple inspection objects or an incompletely captured inspection object.
This invention relates to radiographic imaging systems used for inspecting objects, particularly in industrial or medical applications. The problem addressed is the challenge of accurately determining whether a radiographic image contains only a portion of the inspection object, which can lead to incomplete or misleading inspection results. The invention provides a method to automatically detect if an image contains multiple objects or an incompletely captured object, ensuring more reliable inspection outcomes. The method involves analyzing the radiographic image to identify whether it includes at least one of multiple inspection objects or an incompletely captured inspection object. This is achieved through automated recognition techniques, which may involve image processing algorithms to detect edges, shapes, or other features that indicate the presence of multiple objects or partial captures. By identifying these conditions, the system can flag incomplete or ambiguous images for further review or correction, improving the accuracy and reliability of the inspection process. The method enhances existing radiographic imaging systems by adding automated quality control to ensure that only complete and properly captured images are used for analysis. This reduces the risk of errors due to incomplete data and improves overall inspection efficiency.
9. The method according to claim 1 , wherein recognizing whether the radiographic image contains only a portion of the inspection object includes: requesting an input from an operator, the input indicating whether the radiographic image contains at least one of multiple inspection objects or an incompletely captured inspection object.
This invention relates to radiographic imaging systems used for inspecting objects, particularly in industrial or medical applications. The problem addressed is the challenge of accurately determining whether a radiographic image contains only a portion of an inspection object or multiple objects, which can lead to misinterpretation or incomplete analysis. The solution involves a method for improving the reliability of radiographic inspections by incorporating operator input to verify image completeness. The method includes capturing a radiographic image of an inspection object and then determining whether the image contains only a portion of the object or multiple objects. This determination is made by prompting an operator to provide input indicating whether the image includes at least one of multiple inspection objects or an incompletely captured inspection object. The operator's input helps ensure that the system correctly identifies the scope of the inspection, preventing errors in analysis due to partial or incomplete imaging. This approach enhances the accuracy of radiographic inspections by combining automated imaging with human verification, reducing the risk of misdiagnosis or missed defects. The method is particularly useful in applications where precise object identification is critical, such as non-destructive testing or medical imaging.
10. An evaluation device for visually evaluating radiographic images, the evaluation device comprising: a computer unit configured to execute programming to: receive at least one radiographic image of an inspection object, the at least one radiographic image generated by an inspection apparatus configured for continuously transporting objects through the inspection apparatus for nondestructive inspection of the objects; recognize whether the at least one radiographic image contains only a portion of the inspection object; retrieve a further radiographic image of the inspection object based on recognition that the radiographic image contains only a portion of the inspection object, the further radiographic image generated by the inspection apparatus and containing a further portion of the inspection object; and combine the at least one radiographic image with the further radiographic image to form a combined radiographic image; an output unit configured to display to an operator the at least one of the at least one radiographic image, the further radiographic image, or the combined radiographic image; and an input unit configured for receiving inputs from the operator in response to the displayed at least one of the at least one radiographic image, the further radiographic image, or the combined radiographic image.
This invention relates to a system for visually evaluating radiographic images used in nondestructive inspection of objects, particularly in high-speed inspection environments where objects are continuously transported through an inspection apparatus. The problem addressed is the incomplete capture of an object's image during inspection, which can occur when the object is partially visible in a single radiographic image due to its size, speed, or positioning. This incomplete imaging can hinder accurate evaluation and decision-making by operators. The evaluation device includes a computer unit that processes radiographic images generated by an inspection apparatus. The computer unit receives at least one radiographic image of an inspection object and determines whether the image contains only a portion of the object. If the image is incomplete, the computer unit retrieves additional radiographic images from the inspection apparatus that contain further portions of the object. These images are then combined to form a complete radiographic image of the object. The system also includes an output unit that displays the original, additional, or combined images to an operator. An input unit allows the operator to provide feedback or make decisions based on the displayed images. This approach ensures that operators have a complete view of the inspected object, improving the accuracy and reliability of evaluations in continuous inspection processes.
11. The evaluation device according to claim 10 , wherein the computer unit is further configured to execute programming to: recognize whether at least one of the at least one radiographic image or the combined radiographic image contains multiple inspection objects; divide the at least one of the at least one radiographic image or the combined radiographic image based on the recognition of multiple inspection objects; and generate at least one resulting radiographic image from the divided at least one of the at least one radiographic image or the combined radiographic image, each of the at least one resulting radiographic image containing only one of the multiple inspection objects.
This invention relates to radiographic imaging systems used for inspecting objects, particularly in industrial or security applications. The problem addressed is the difficulty in analyzing radiographic images when multiple inspection objects are present, as overlapping or adjacent objects can obscure details and complicate analysis. The solution involves an evaluation device with a computer unit that processes radiographic images to isolate individual inspection objects. The computer unit is configured to recognize when a radiographic image or a combined image (formed by merging multiple images) contains multiple inspection objects. Once detected, the system divides the image into segments, each containing only one inspection object. This division results in multiple separate radiographic images, each focused on a single object. The process ensures that each object is clearly visible and can be individually analyzed without interference from adjacent objects. This improves inspection accuracy and efficiency, particularly in automated or high-throughput systems where multiple objects are scanned simultaneously. The technology is applicable in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and security screening, where precise object identification and analysis are critical.
12. The evaluation device according to claim 10 , wherein the computer unit includes a communication interface for communicatively coupling the computer unit with at least one inspection apparatus, the communication interface configured for receiving the at least one radiographic image from the at least one inspection apparatus for visual evaluation.
This invention relates to an evaluation device for analyzing radiographic images, particularly in industrial or medical inspection applications. The device addresses the challenge of efficiently processing and evaluating radiographic images to detect defects or anomalies in inspected objects. The evaluation device includes a computer unit with a communication interface that enables it to receive radiographic images from one or more inspection apparatuses. The communication interface is specifically configured to facilitate the transfer of these images for visual evaluation by the computer unit. The device may also include a display unit for presenting the images to an operator or an automated analysis system. The computer unit processes the received images to identify and highlight areas of interest, such as defects or irregularities, improving the accuracy and speed of inspection. The system may further integrate with multiple inspection apparatuses, allowing centralized evaluation of images from different sources. This setup enhances workflow efficiency by reducing the need for manual image handling and enabling real-time or batch processing of radiographic data. The invention aims to streamline inspection workflows, particularly in industries like manufacturing, aerospace, or healthcare, where precise and rapid analysis of radiographic images is critical.
13. The evaluation device according to claim 10 , wherein the computer unit is further configured to execute programming to receive a second radiographic image of the inspection object after the combined radiographic image is formed.
This invention relates to a radiographic evaluation device used for inspecting objects, particularly in industrial or medical applications where detailed imaging is required. The device addresses the challenge of accurately assessing internal structures by combining multiple radiographic images to enhance clarity and diagnostic value. The core system includes a computer unit that processes radiographic data to generate a combined image from multiple input images, improving resolution and reducing artifacts. The computer unit is further configured to receive a second radiographic image of the inspection object after the combined image is formed. This additional image can be used for comparison, verification, or further analysis, ensuring comprehensive evaluation. The device may also include a display unit to present the combined and subsequent images to an operator, facilitating real-time inspection and decision-making. The system may incorporate additional features such as image alignment, noise reduction, and contrast enhancement to optimize the quality of the radiographic output. This technology is particularly useful in non-destructive testing, quality control, and medical imaging, where precise and reliable imaging is critical.
14. The evaluation device according to claim 10 , wherein the computer unit is further configured to execute programming to recognize whether the at least one radiographic image contains at least one of multiple inspection objects or an incompletely captured inspection object.
This invention relates to a radiographic evaluation device designed to analyze radiographic images for quality control in industrial or medical applications. The device addresses the challenge of accurately detecting and assessing defects or anomalies in radiographic images, particularly when multiple objects are present or when an object is incompletely captured within the image frame. The evaluation device includes a computer unit that processes radiographic images to identify and evaluate inspection objects. The computer unit is configured to execute programming that recognizes whether the image contains multiple inspection objects or an incompletely captured inspection object. This functionality helps ensure that the evaluation process accounts for all relevant objects and avoids misinterpretation due to partial or incomplete imaging. The device may also include an image acquisition unit to capture radiographic images and a display unit to present the results of the evaluation. The computer unit's programming further enables the device to assess the quality of the radiographic images, detect defects, and provide feedback on the inspection process. By identifying multiple or incompletely captured objects, the device enhances the reliability of defect detection and reduces the likelihood of errors in quality assessment. This technology is particularly useful in industries where precise radiographic inspection is critical, such as manufacturing, aerospace, and healthcare.
15. The evaluation device according to claim 10 , wherein the computer unit is further configured to execute programming to request an input from an operator, the input indicating whether the at least one radiographic image contains at least one of multiple inspection objects or an incompletely captured inspection object.
This invention relates to an evaluation device for analyzing radiographic images, particularly in industrial or medical imaging applications where accurate detection of inspection objects is critical. The device addresses the challenge of ensuring that radiographic images contain all necessary inspection objects and that they are fully captured without missing portions. The system includes a computer unit that processes radiographic images to identify and evaluate inspection objects within the scanned area. The computer unit is configured to request operator input to confirm whether the image contains multiple inspection objects or if any inspection object is incompletely captured. This interactive verification step helps prevent errors in analysis due to missing or partially captured objects, improving the reliability of the evaluation process. The device may also include additional features such as image enhancement, object segmentation, and automated defect detection, which work in conjunction with the operator verification to ensure comprehensive inspection. By combining automated analysis with human oversight, the system enhances accuracy in identifying and assessing inspection objects in radiographic images.
16. An inspection system, comprising: at least one inspection apparatus, the at least one inspection apparatus configured to generate at least one radiographic image of at least one inspection object; an evaluation device communicatively coupled to the at least one inspection apparatus, the evaluation device configured to receive the at least one radiographic image from the at least one inspection device for a visual evaluation; a computer unit configured to execute programming to: receive the at least one radiographic image of an inspection object from the at least one inspection apparatus; recognize whether the at least one radiographic image contains only a portion of the inspection object; retrieve a further radiographic image of the inspection object based on recognition that the at least one radiographic image contains only a portion of the inspection object, the further radiographic image generated by the at least one inspection apparatus and containing a further portion of the inspection object; and combine the at least one radiographic image with the further radiographic image to form a combined radiographic image; an output unit configured to display to an operator the at least one of the at least one radiographic image, the further radiographic image or the combined radiographic image; and an input unit configured for receiving inputs from the operator in response to the displayed the at least one of the at least one radiographic image, the further radiographic image or the combined radiographic image.
The inspection system is designed for radiographic imaging of objects, addressing challenges in visualizing complete object structures when partial images are captured. The system includes at least one inspection apparatus that generates radiographic images of an inspection object. An evaluation device receives these images for visual assessment. A computer unit processes the images by analyzing whether a given radiographic image contains only a portion of the object. If so, it retrieves additional radiographic images from the inspection apparatus that capture further portions of the object. The computer unit then combines these images to form a complete or more comprehensive radiographic image. The system displays the original, additional, or combined images to an operator via an output unit. An input unit allows the operator to interact with the displayed images, enabling adjustments or further analysis. This approach ensures that operators can assess the entire structure of an inspection object, even when initial images are incomplete, improving accuracy in visual evaluations. The system automates the retrieval and combination of partial images, streamlining the inspection process.
17. The inspection system according to claim 16 , further comprising a communication interface for communicatively coupling the evaluation device with the at least one inspection apparatus.
The inspection system is designed for automated quality control in manufacturing, particularly for detecting defects in products or processes. The system includes at least one inspection apparatus that captures data from a production line, such as images, sensor readings, or other measurements. An evaluation device processes this data to identify defects, deviations, or anomalies based on predefined criteria or machine learning models. The system may also include a user interface for displaying results, adjusting parameters, or triggering corrective actions. The inspection system further includes a communication interface that enables data exchange between the evaluation device and the inspection apparatus. This interface ensures real-time or near-real-time transmission of inspection data, allowing the evaluation device to process information as it is collected. The communication interface may support wired or wireless connections, ensuring reliable and secure data transfer. This feature enhances the system's efficiency by reducing latency and improving synchronization between components, which is critical for high-speed production environments. The system may also integrate with other manufacturing systems, such as control units or databases, to provide a comprehensive quality assurance solution.
18. The inspection system according to claim 16 , wherein the computer unit is further configured to execute programming to: recognize whether at least one of the at least one radiographic image or the combined radiographic image contains multiple inspection objects; divide the at least one of the at least one radiographic image or the combined radiographic image based on the recognition of multiple inspection objects; and generate at least one resulting radiographic image from the divided at least one of the at least one radiographic image or the combined radiographic image, each of the at least one resulting radiographic image containing only one of the multiple inspection objects.
The inspection system is designed for analyzing radiographic images to identify and isolate multiple inspection objects within a single image. The system addresses the challenge of accurately inspecting overlapping or clustered objects in radiographic imaging, which can complicate automated analysis and quality control processes. The system includes a computer unit that processes radiographic images, either individually or as combined images, to detect the presence of multiple objects. Upon recognizing multiple objects, the system automatically divides the image into separate sections, each containing only one inspection object. This division results in multiple distinct radiographic images, each focused on a single object, improving the accuracy and efficiency of subsequent inspections. The system enhances automated inspection workflows by simplifying object isolation, reducing manual intervention, and ensuring consistent analysis of individual objects within complex radiographic data. This approach is particularly useful in industrial and medical applications where precise object identification is critical.
19. The inspection system according to claim 16 , wherein the computer unit is further configured to execute programming to receive a second radiographic image of the inspection object after the combined radiographic image is formed.
The inspection system is designed for non-destructive testing of objects using radiographic imaging. The system addresses the challenge of accurately inspecting objects with complex geometries or overlapping features that can obscure defects in traditional single-view radiographic images. The system generates a combined radiographic image by merging multiple radiographic images of the inspection object taken from different angles or perspectives. This combined image provides a more comprehensive view of the object, reducing the likelihood of missing defects due to overlapping features or shadowing effects. The system includes a computer unit that processes the radiographic images to form the combined image. The computer unit is further configured to receive a second radiographic image of the inspection object after the combined image is formed. This additional image can be used for further analysis, comparison, or verification of the inspection results. The system may also include imaging devices, such as X-ray or gamma-ray sources, and detectors positioned to capture the radiographic images from the required angles. The computer unit may apply image processing techniques, such as alignment, blending, or tomographic reconstruction, to generate the combined image. The system may be used in industries like aerospace, manufacturing, or quality control, where accurate defect detection is critical.
20. The inspection system according to claim 16 , wherein the computer unit is further configured to execute programming to recognize whether the at least one radiographic image contains at least one of multiple inspection objects or an incompletely captured inspection object.
The inspection system is designed for analyzing radiographic images to detect and evaluate objects within the images. The system addresses challenges in accurately identifying and assessing multiple inspection objects or objects that are only partially captured in the radiographic image. The system includes a computer unit that processes the radiographic images to determine whether the images contain one or more inspection objects or an incompletely captured inspection object. The computer unit executes programming to recognize and classify these objects, ensuring that the inspection process is thorough and reliable. This functionality enhances the system's ability to detect and analyze objects of interest, even when the image capture is incomplete or multiple objects are present. The system improves the accuracy and efficiency of radiographic inspections by automating the detection and classification of objects, reducing the need for manual review and minimizing errors. The technology is particularly useful in industrial, medical, or security applications where precise object detection is critical.
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September 22, 2020
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